Washington Wizards Make Return Visit to China

Anchor: To mark this year's 30th anniversary of the establishment of Sino-US relations, the Washington Wizards, the first NBA team that visited China in 1979, is making a return trip to Beijing.He Fei has more.

The Washington Wizards have concluded their Shanghai tour, the first leg of their China visit, and have arrived in Beijing Tuesday. Members of their delegation say they enjoyed the sightseeing and basketball clinics in Shanghai, and are now looking forward to the rest of the trip.

Caron Butler, Washington Wizards forward.

"I would like to say that I'm just in awe being on this trip and enjoying this moment. The first stop Shanghai was a great stop. I saw magnificent things there, taught clinics and had a great time. I look forward to seeing the Great Wall and the Forbidden City."

The commemorative tour is considered part of the "basketball diplomacy" between the two countries. And as basketball in China is growing in popularity, further business opportunities are emerging.
Peter Biche, President of the team.

"We want to continue our relationship. Clearly the basketball is rolling popularity. It's very popular here in China. I think there are reasons for our organization to continue that relationship with China whether it's in business relationship or athletic relationship. We see the future here for our organization."

Basketball in China has been attracting increasing attention over the last 30 years, especially with Yao Ming's growing popularity in the US. Statistics say the number of Chinese who watch the NBA games on TV stands at a staggering 450 million.

Xie Yuan is an official with the Chinese People's Association for Friendship with Foreign Countries, the organization behind the event.

"The delegation will attend various kinds of sporting events, and public welfare activities. While introducing advanced management theories and demonstrating outstanding basketball skills, the team will also bring the friendship of the American people to China."The delegation will leave Beijing on Friday for Chengdu and Guangzhou before wrapping up their tour next week.

CRI news, this is He Fei.